Hi Everyone,
I received this press release from the Alaska Travel Industry
Association and thought it would be of interest. If you have missed
any of my news' postings, they are available on my web site.
Best regards,
Ray
LIGHTHOUSE TRAVEL
800-719-9917 or 805-566-3905
http://www.lighthousetravel.com
Happy 50th Birthday, Alaska!
ANCHORAGE, Alaska, Dec. 11
When Alaskans found out the United States Senate passed the Statehood
Act in June of 1958, sirens blared and crowds celebrated around
bonfires.
It was a spontaneous party that kicked off six months of anticipation
ahead of President Dwight D. Eisenhower's signature on the statehood
proclamation on Jan. 3, 1959. Fast-forward 50 years, and Alaska is
preparing to mark the official anniversary with just as much fervor.
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With anniversary-related events scheduled throughout the year, 2009
makes a great year to travel to Alaska. Many tourism businesses are
offering special anniversary deals that will reduce costs on
experiences statewide.
The Statehood Gala at the Dena'ina Civic and Convention Center will
lead off the celebrations on Jan. 2, in Anchorage, with remarks from
the state's political dignitaries and statewide musical and
performance groups. The next day, a birthday bash will take over
downtown Anchorage, led by a procession of Alaska's diverse people.
The event will continue with a stage performance, musical and cultural
acts and a fireworks show.
Also on Jan. 3, the Valdez Family Fest will include dog sledding, snow
sculpting, a Wii tournament, an indoor carnival, fireworks and, of
course, birthday cake. The events will take place in and around the
Valdez Convention and Civic Center.
"If travelers are looking for a different kind of New Year's party to
attend, this is it," said Ron Peck, president and COO of the Alaska
Travel Industry Association. "We're celebrating our history, our
successes and our growth as a state. It's going to be a tremendous day
for Alaska, and an even bigger year."
Many Alaskans can think back over the past 50 years and marvel at how
the state has changed. But even as the state grows up, it will only
take a scan of the crowd on Jan. 3, to realize Alaska's pioneering
spirit is still alive.
About Alaska Travel Industry Association
ATIA is a non-profit, membership-based organization comprising all
facets of Alaska's visitor industry and representing over 1,100 large
and small travel-related businesses. The association serves as the
voice of Alaska's tourism industry and maintains the TravelAlaska.com
Web site for visitors interested in the state. For more information
about ATIA, visit alaskatia.org. |